What is PRP Therapy?

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Another component of our stem cell treatment consists of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections. Stem cells injected into an area by themselves will remain relatively quiescent. The stem cells will not function without PRP or some component of it. The PRP contributes growth factors and stimulating proteins, which directly affect stem cells. There are many different components to the PRP product. These signaling factors instruct the body to send stem cells to the area of damage and at the same time cause the stem cells to reproduce and begin repair. Less severe conditions can be treated with PRP and growth factors. Moderately severe conditions may require PRP, growth factors and stem cells from a fat graft. Finally, the most severe conditions require PRP, HGH, mesenchymal fat stem cells and bone marrow stem cells. Typically, this would represent a significant arthritis of a joint.

PRP Therapy is replacing traditional orthopedic surgery in many instances for conditions ranging from soft tissue injuries (tendonitis, muscle tears, ligamentous injuries) to various joint afflictions, such as a torn meniscus or mild to moderate arthritis of the joint.

How Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections Work

PRP therapy at the National Institute of Regenerative Medicine typically requires two PRP injections into the injured tissue. Each procedure takes approximately 35 minutes to complete. The injections will likely be four to six weeks apart. Occasionally, a third PRP injection is needed.

Our PRP therapy is unique from other stem cell treatment facilities. First, we are one of the few facilities in the world that use an enhanced PRP with growth factors that are injected along with the PRP. We call this a Rx PRP. These additional growth factors dramatically increase the chances of success. Furthermore, we will enhance the Platelet Rich Plasma by the process of photo-modulation.

After enhancing the patient’s Platelet Rich Plasma, we will inject the PRP directly into the patient’s injury. The methods used to inject the PRP depend on the area being treated. For certain joints, such as the hip, we utilize fluoroscopy, which is a â€œlive x-ray.â€ In other instances, we utilize ultrasound guidance or simply give the injection into a joint.

What to Expect After the PRP Therapy Injections

The aftercare for most PRP therapy injections is relatively simple. Patients will resume activity at their own pace. The pain from the process typically will last a few days, occasionally longer, and some patients have more severe or sporadic pain than others. Because your own blood is used, there is no risk of a transmittable infection and a very low risk of allergic reaction to the treatment.

After the PRP injections, a variety of techniques to help maximize stem cell output from the bone marrow are utilized including the use of supplements, as well as the avoidance of smoking and alcohol intake, which diminish stem cell output. Additionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) will be restricted for just a couple of days.

Additional Information about Our PRP Therapy

We do not employ any clotting agents, such as thrombin, with our PRP therapy. It is not necessary and could actually be detrimental since using a clotting agent releases the growth factors all at once rather than through a prolonged release.

We strongly encourage you to learn more about the science of Platelet Rich Plasma treatment. If you are considering having PRP therapy done, you owe it to yourself to have a better understanding of the methods being used and the questions you should be asking.